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Explore the Heart of England on a 5-day tour of Shakespeare’s birthplace, and marvel at the beauty of the Snowdonia mountains in North Wales. Visit Chatsworth House, cross the dramatic dales of Yorkshire, wander the streets of medieval York, and more.

Highlights

• Discover Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon
• Drive the mountain roads of Snowdonia
• Wander the streets of medieval York
• Cross the moors of the Peak District
• Visit elegant Chatsworth House

Description

Day 1: You leave London and travel to the birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford-up-Avon. Home to the bard’s birthplace, schoolhouse, and resting place, you have time to explore this charming market town and enjoy lunch in one of the many restaurants and riverside pubs. You then head to the World Heritage Site of Ironbridge close to the Welsh border. Set in a stunning gorge of the River Severn, the historic valley boasts the world’s first bridge made of iron, as well as a host of other attractions. Then, travel to the beautiful town of Shrewsbury to check in to your accommodation for the next 2 nights. Day 2: Today, you will head into the heart of North Wales and visit the picture book castle of Conwy, built by Edward I in the late 13th century. Marvel at the mountain scenery of Snowdonia National Park, including the huge Dinorwic slate quarries and the dramatic Pass of Llanberis in the shadows of the highest mountain peak in Wales. Hear tales of Owain Glyndwr and the Welsh struggles for independence before traveling back through the borderlands into England. Day 3: Northeast of Shrewsbury lies the Peak District National Park, a landscape of rugged moorland, walled pastures, and wooded valleys. As you travel through, you'll see picturesque villages and stunning scenery. After a scenic drive, you arrive in Buxton, a spa town known for its natural thermal springs, popular since Roman times. You can even fill your bottle with water from the famous spring. In the afternoon, visit Chatsworth, the Duke of Devonshire's renowned stately home, famous for its vast collection of art and furniture. Heading north, you pass through England’s former industrial heartlands before reaching York, where you'll stay for two nights. Day 4: Today you have the option to spend the day at leisure exploring the medieval heart of York. Wander the streets of a city with a rich history that dates back to the time of the Romans, Vikings, and Normans. Visit some of York’s fascinating museums, and the stunning York Minster, or just lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets. Alternatively, join your guide on a half-day excursion into the Yorkshire Dales to visit the pretty market towns of Knaresborough or Ripon. Continue your scenic drive of the remote valleys and rugged scenery of the Eastern Dales, before returning to York for a free afternoon. Day 5: Depart the fair city of York in the morning, stopping in the town of Lincoln, famed for its beautiful historic center and delicious Lincolnshire sausages. Continue to the university City of Cambridge, where you can stroll the medieval streets in the shadow of the dreamy spires of historic colleges, including the famous Kings College Chapel. Take a guided punting ride along ‘the backs’ of the colleges, or climb the steps of St Mary’s tower to get a skyline view before heading back to London.

Includes

Transportation by top-of-the-range minicoach Driver/guide 4 night's bed and breakfast accommodation Admission to Conwy Castle

Important Information

• This small-group tour has a maximum of 16 participants, allowing for more personal service, more time with locals, more time off the bus, more time on the back roads and a more authentic, friendly experience
• It is recommended that you wear clothing and footwear suitable for the tour
• Minimum age to participate is 5 years
• To maintain the integrity of the tour and ensure the best possible experience for all our customers, we limit bookings to a maximum of 8 passengers per group.
• Accommodation: Small, locally owned guesthouses and B&Bs. All rooms are en suite. B&Bs are typically located on the outskirts of towns, so be prepared for a 20–30 minute walk to local facilities such as pubs and restaurants. If you have difficulty with stairs, please let us know, as lifts are not available in these types of properties.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 14 days in advance for a full refund